When is the Best Time to Cruise?

Published 07/29/2016 07:31 PM |
Updated 01/19/2017 08:07 PM

Naturally, we think any time is a great time to cruise! But of course, the fact that Carnival cruises sail all around the world means that the seasons can play a role in just how perfect your cruise conditions will be. Here is a general guideline to the best time to cruise to Carnival’s most popular cruise destinations.

OK, now for the best news: any time really is a great time for a Caribbean cruise! Most of the more than 5,000 islands and cays in this turquoise-water paradise enjoy mild tropical weather year-round. You’re bound to get sunshine and lots of blue sky days perfect for exploring island villages, snorkeling, hanging out at the beach or your activity of choice. For a closer look at the average temperatures in Caribbean ports, along with great ideas for what to pack, click here.

On the other side of the world, most Mediterranean cruises sail in the summer months, when you can enjoy sun and sand in coastal cities or sit at an outdoor café on a cobblestoned street. If you’re most interested in the beach, July and August may be your best bets. If you’re looking for a mix of sunshine and slightly cooler temperatures, try a cruise to the Mediterranean in June, September or October. For a look at the average temperatures per month in the major European cities, click here.

If you’re a leaf peeper — that’s someone who loves the radiant colors of fall foliage – you’re probably considering a Canada/New England cruise. Naturally, the best time to experience the glory of Mother Nature’s fall colors is… well, the fall! But Canada/New England cruises are also great in the summer, when calls in the northeastern coastal ports call to mind classic clambakes and lobster rolls. For a look at the range of temperatures between the months of June and October in this region, click here.

Speaking of coastlines, there are few places as special as the seaside towns of Alaska. So when is a good time to take an Alaskan cruise? Yes, you’ll see glaciers, but the best time to cruise to Alaska is the summer, when you have more hours of daylight and temperatures in the 60s. June and July are popular, but you can also cruise to Alaska in May, August and September and have a spectacular time. Click here to see the average temperatures and hours of sunlight during these months.

No matter where you are cruising, always check the latest weather forecasts for more specific and accurate expectations. The team at Carnival is always happy to answer any questions you have about seasons and when to sail as well, so don’t be shy – give us a call at 1-800-764-7419.

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